Best Tent Camping near Waurika, OK

Recent Tent Reviews near Waurika, Oklahoma

93 Reviews of 4 Waurika Campgrounds

• 

  Justin F.

  Guide

  

  Apr. 24, 2020

  Lake Lawtonka East Campground

  Good Clean Fun but why no restrooms?

  East Side – Lake Lawtonka primitive tent camping sites are very well scattered and away from each other. They have two separate areas for primitive camping along with an RV and camper area. The RV and camper area sides are $20 a night with electricity and $8 a night for all primitive tent camping sites. The first primitive campsite is called the ponds. It's very heavily wooded and Lush. The other primitive campsite is very open with almost no trees. Both sides have a beautiful view of Mount Scott & Lake lawtonka. The relative closeness all the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge is literally just across the lake. The view is outstanding but the only negative thing I have to say about this campsite is it there's no restrooms for the primitive camping areas. Both of them have only portable outhouses. No true rest rooms are nearby other than and the RV area. Other than that it's a great place for a wonderful weekend.

• 

  Dave V.

  Legend

  

  Nov. 30, 2021

  Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area

  Beautiful Setting, but Military Ordinance can be noisy even inside a Cabin

  Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area, Fort Sill, OK

  Cabin 3 (both late June and mid-October)

  Lake Elmer Thomas(LETRA) is a 334 acre lake located on Fort Sill in Comanche County, Oklahoma. LETRA offers a pretty nice location for recreating. Offering quite a bit for families in a limited space.                                                                                                            •A nice beach and cordoned swim area, complete with restrooms and shower house(11a-7p)…lifeguards                                                                                                          •Sand volleyball court                                                                                                             •Watersport rentals: paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, pontoon boat                                      •Mini golf course                                                                                                                         •Disc golf course                                                                                                                     •RV/Camper area                                                                                                                         •Rustic rental cabins                                                                                                                    •Random primitive tent camping                                                                                        •Fishing                                                                                                                                              •Nearby off-base hiking(Mount Scott and the Medicine Park Wildlife Refuge)              •Bicycling-ample quiet, paved road opportunities but surprisingly limited off road options 

  Tent Camping: there are no specifically designated loop or numbered site tent areas. Tenters are permitted to camp all along the lake’s edge in the grassy area. There are a few picnic tables and elevated charcoal grills(no ground fires permitted), so you may have to do without. There are also a few picnic tables under shelters, but half are in a state of disrepair and caution-taped off. Tenters cannot set up tents within the cabin rental inner circle. 

  The modern facility restrooms are across from the playground as you enter the cabin rental peninsula. Tent campers are able to utilize the shower house/restrooms in the RV/Camper section, as well as the beach areas during open hours. There is no ground cover to separate one tent from the next…all can be seen and heard. 

  RV/Camper Sites: big rigs are lined up side by side in a separate gravel loop immediately to the left of the entrance. Sites have water and electric hookups. The nicest shower house/restroom is located there. There is a small patch of grass between sites, picnic table and elevated charcoal grill. These sites are closest to the entrance, beach area, watersport rental and campground activities. 

  Cabin Rentals: log home rentals are on a small peninsula with great views of Mount Scott and Lake Elmer Thomas. At the time of this review, you must bring your own bedding linens/blankets, towels, etc. I would also recommend packing extra eating utensils, condiments and any other items that you would take camping. We rented Cabin 3, which the website says will sleep 4…inaccurate. One full size bed and a small futon will sleep two average-sized adults and one small child in marginal comfort. The table only provides two chairs, not four for two not four. I would subtract 1-2 persons on the cabins unless you count floor space. Cabin 3 was$80 nightly. 

  Painted turtles are in abundance around the lake, as are smallish ‘fist-sized’ tarantulas. Bicycling the Artillary Range perimeter roadways on base, coyote dash across in early morning hours. Note: you are on a military base, so there are a number of restrictions that you need to be aware of and abide by. 

  Additionally, the campground is positioned along the northern side of the Artillery range. Yes, you will see and hear C-Ram’s lighting up the sky randomly during the day and night hours, as well as other ordinance. I enjoyed the display and out-of-the-ordinary disruption. Think unanticipated fireworks.

• 

  Dave V.

  Legend

  

  Nov. 30, 2021

  Military Park Fort Sill Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area

  A great tenting option when visiting Fort Sill or Lawton

  Lake Elmer Thomas Recreation Area(LERTA), Fort Sill, OK

   

  Tent Site:$10 (both in June and October)

  Spending a week in Lawton, OK there are only “so many” places you can camp…so we jumped around every night to try as many as we could. The weather was blistering hot and cloudless during the day with a constant strong breeze in June...(and unseasonably windy and bitter cold in mid-October). So both Lake Elmer Thomas and Lake Lawtonka were a welcomed respite. Technically, the only swimming permitted on Lake Elmer Thomas is 11:00a-7:00p with a daily pass of $8. However, they offer packages for military families and civilians should someone desire to take advantage of the season savings. For campers it’s all included in the site or cabin costs. 

  There is a separate RV/Camper Loop near the entrance and is a little lower so does not have Lake views. All cabins have lake views to some degree. 

  Tent sites are grassy areas along the campground roadway on either side, but are not numbered and cost$10 a night. All are first-come, first-served. Most will snatch up the sheltered picnic table areas with an elevated charcoal grill. Almost all are along the lake bank. There is no understory or shrubbery to provide privacy, so you can see and hear your neighbors. 

  During our stay, they were all young families and very respectful of others. Tent campers can utilize any of the restrooms as well as the showerhouse in the RV area. 

  There is enough to stay busy right here at LERTA. Canoe, kayak, paddle board and pontoon boat rentals to enjoy the lake. Fishing is permitted and schools of bluegill are seen along the shoreline. The water is incredibly clear. A very nice mini-golf course is located across from the offices. Sand volleyball is next to the beach area. The beach and swimming area is manned by lifeguards from 11:00a-7:00p and offers a huge restroom/showers/changing rooms building. Playgrounds are located in the RV/Camper loop, outside the beach area and along the tenting area before you reach the cabin rentals. An archery range is located across the roadway from the tenting/picnic areas. 

  The staff are very courteous and helpful. The entrance gate attendant will direct you (Entrance was manned in June but not in October). A bicycle event was taking place and LERTA was the halfway mark and turnaround point. So bicycling these sparsely traveled undulating roads was enjoyable. There are some two track worth exploring to the north of the roadway as well as a few other sizable lakes to fish in the area. 

  DO NOT venture south off the roadway. It is a clearly marked and active artillery range. Also of note, artillery range practice, though sporadic, takes place at any hour of any day. If you treat it like an unexpected fireworks display you’ll actually look forward to it. 

  I find the large resident flock of geese more annoying that the artillery….though the half minute displays were at 2359, 0245 and 0349…blasting you out of any REM cycle. 

  I was advised the tent spots rarely fill up, but RV/Camper and cabin rentals(adventure travel letra)fill up quickly so reservations are a must. 

  Things to do nearby: Definitely spend time in the Medicine Park Wildlife Refuge Area. Drive, bicycle, run or walk up Mount Scott(rock climbing is permitted on Mount Scott). Check out the hundreds of free roaming LongHorn’s, Bison and prairie dog towns. Coyotes, various snakes and tarantulas can be seen through these hills. Scores of fishable lakes dot the landscape. The Ferguson homestead still exists with its “cannonball” architecture. Chad's El Sabores Mexican Restaurant in Medicine Park is a fantastic little eatery on your way in or out of the Recreation Area. Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center is worth a visit and reasonably priced. Clarification: while this may or may not be true for every military base campground, 

  LERTA is open to civilians. However, there is a process. Passes must be acquired at the Visitor’s Center at the Sheridan Entrance (plan for an hour) for each adult over 16. You must have a valid/current Drivers License, Passport or other recognized government ID. They do a background check before you qualify for a pass. Also know, certain gates close at 7:00p…so keep track of your time of off-base.

   The camp host rolled through during the evening before sunset to make sure all was well…and the military police made their rounds a few times during each day. Both of which I appreciate. 

  Would I return? Yes, if I’m traveling through these parts again, I wouldn’t hesitate to camp here again (and I did in mid-October, same year for military graduations)

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 31, 2018

  Burkburnett-Wichita Falls KOA

  KOA in need of a little a little TLC

  For improved campground I have always found KOA to maintain a certain level of consistency so when I went on a fun trip with some friends to check out the “rumored Texas Chainsaw Massacre” community just north of Wichita Falls we wanted to check out the KOA there. Now while you are reading this and probably thinking, “WHY WOULD YOU GO THERE??” Keep in mind it is the rumored house and there is no factual proof that it actually is there, instead we found some really interesting other creepy things to go check out, because why not.

  Anyway, back to the campground itself.

  I was very impressed with the green space, a lot of this area was already starting to brown because of the heat, but they were still looking fresh and soft and that would make for a much better location for our tent. The site itself was just under $30, one of three options they offer which are all only about $4 in difference in pricing. We sprung for the middle option with electrical hook ups, not because we needed them but because after driving around we liked the look of that site a bit more. The deluxe sites they offered were taken but they had bbq grills and a more private tent area, this has been my favorite at several other KOA locations because of the amenities however this again was taken so that wasn’t an option.

  We settled in and noticed that there were very nice amenities, the pool was amazing and perfect for a cool down on the warm day. KOA usually has this kind of amenity available as well as some outdoor activities you can enjoy like playground or sports courts. We were told they do observe quiet hours however if we wanted to swim a bit later as long as we were not loud we could do so. I would ask if this is ok before just getting out there and doing it however!!

  The shower area was very close to the tent space we had selected and as often is at a KOA, one of my favorite features because they are more home like than a typical National or State Park campground. The water was warm and the pressure was very good!!

  I noticed there were several what looked to be long term campers there in RVs. While I personally am not effected by this, it did make the area they were staying in a little less kept looking. They were not over by the cabins and tents however so it wasn’t that off-putting to me, but I could see how if that is an RV stayers view it could be kind of annoying.

  I used the WIFI here and it worked great, sometimes the campsites are a bit to far away and thus don’t get good connection, however I was able to use wifi for typical functions, although I did not fully test it with uploading anything major.

  TIPS

  If you are interested in a Deluxe site book in advance there are very few and they go fast during heavy traffic seasons. Usually at this campsite there are tent sites which are walk in ready however.

  Explore around the campground because they have some very interesting items if you are willing to just walk around and see them which are unique to this campground.

  • Be careful for stickers. While the area we were in didn’t seem to have them we did notice when walking around especially near the dog walk area they seemed to be pretty bad.
• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 11, 2018

  Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake

  Seasonally Open

  I went to go check out campgrounds around the lake and this one had been recommended by someone in the community of Waurika. Unfortunately when I went out here though it was closed!! There is a nice mercantile and boat storage area just outside of the gate which could explain the recommendation because amenities are so close, however when I arrived the gates were locked.

  TIPS:

  • Check your visitation in advance for months of operation at this campground along with others.

  • When coming to this area check for local events including fishing tournaments and the infamous RattleSnake Roundup.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 11, 2018

  Moneka Park

  Unkept Grasslands

  When I pulled into this campsite I wasn’t sure what to expect. Being on the opposite side of the earthen dam from other campsites along Lake Waurika I didn’t know what if anything would be of interest.

  I noticed when pulling in this area offers a couple of hiking trails which is vastly different than the lakeside camping. Sites here were mostly shaded and more of a grassland feel. With that being said after recent rains they looked a little unkept with y’all weeds in many areas making for some questionable conditions.

  I found sites at this camp both with and without hook ups. All sites looked to have large pull in slots, however the main road was pretty small so I would assume you need to be very good with your rig if it is longer to navigate into sites.

  As a tent camper all these sites looked to have good prospect for placing a tent. Grass surrounding the area would make for a very padded site and with a picnic table, prep table and grill in each site when the grounds are maintained I could see this being a great spot to try.

  The other negative I did see to this camp was the low laying areas seemed to hold water so many campsites were a bit saturated on the improved side of camp. Little lakes basically were everywhere. Unfortunately this side was also the area with the better restroom so to get a good spot you would have to walk a farther distance to be able to use the facilities which were cleaner.

  Pricing was very fair at this location and during busier season I can only imagine they mow the area which would make it ideal for camping of any kind. But as it sits it felt kind of like a ghost town.

  TIPS:

  • Take a good drive through camp before selecting a site then drive back to the kiosk to make reservations through the honor box.
  • Don’t overshoot camp entrance because there are no real turn arounds if you are in a larger rig.
• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 11, 2018

  Kiowa Park II Marina

  Day Use Only

  This site is a great place for those looking to have a launch for Day Use. Much like the other launch site Beaver Creek, it offers a large launch area and marina for those boating on Waurika Lake with limited amenities for usage.

  This site utilizes an honor system for payment and while I was there for over an hour I didn't notice a single ranger coming to enforcement or check payment, I was told during the busier months there is someone who patrols more regularly.

  The water level does not seem to effect this site as much as Beaver so you could access the entire ramp area through rains had pushed the bounds of the lake upward tremendously. The ramp itself seemed entirely accessible still.

  Parking at this area is very nice for larger rigs making it ideal for boat trailers or RVs looking to enjoy the lake for the day, although swimming is out of the question as there is no swimming beach. You can find one just a bit up the road at the Kiowa Park I.

  TIPS:

  • Make sure you follow the directions on the pay slip correctly.

  • There is no store at this location so make sure to bring your supplies with you.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 30, 2018

  COE Waurika Lake Kiowa Park

  Busy Ramp Location

  This campground on paper is a great idea, plenty of sites and right by the lake. That seems like a great idea, but on a recent trip to Lawton I stopped to check it out for future camping and found that paper was a bit deceiving. I was greeted by a park attendant which let me drive in and check it out. I noticed this person was here most of the day so people could arrive late and still check in accordingly.

  Because of its location it is a popular spot for those wanting to launch onto the lake. I don’t have any issue with sharing space, but when people park in the road it becomes a little bit of an issue. I have a small car so if I can barely fit around these parked vehicles I know it would be near impossible for an RV or even a van.

  With that being said, I looked around at the sites themselves. They are advertised for their amenities which include electrical hook ups (various types) and water. It appeared they did indeed have these, but they did have any primitive site options for tent campers. While I do like to stay in improved sites it is nice to have the more affordable option for those which do not need or require these services. Many times when I stay in a tent, I have no reason to hook up to any of these services. In addition, there were no pad sites for tents so while they do allow tents the do not make special concessions for them in any way.

  I went to check out the facilities which include showers and it seemed to be heavily used though there were not any real campers there I could find nearby. I assume this was from the traffic of those using the ramps. I did not check other restrooms to see if their quality was better than the one by the ramp area.

  The setting itself was relatedly flat and though there were some trees, it didn’t seem very shady at all. I can only imagine this makes for quite the hot summer camping.

  TIPS:

  • Make a reservation for a site away from the ramp if you want quiet and less traffic.
  • Check out local burn bans then if there is not one in the area purchase your firewood locally very inexpensively.
  • If you are coming for the Rattlesnake Roundup, book in advance. The attendant did let me know that it is pretty busy that weekend with people traveling from around the country for the event. It is their busiest weekend of the year with the 4th of July running second.
• D

  Dusty B.

  Traveler

  

  Mar. 6, 2022

  Lake Lawtonka East Campground

  East Campground

  We stayed at the East Campground on a Friday in early March, 2022. We were pleasantly surprised as we drove through the tent area. We found a spot we liked and drove across the highway to the Lake office and left our $10 fee in the drop box. Very quiet, beautiful lake view. No restrooms, but we made do.

• 

  Ryin J.

  Guide

  

  Dec. 23, 2020

  Lake Lawtonka East Campground

  Nice Quiet Spot with Mt. Scott View

  We needed a quick spot for an impromptu camping trek so hike the Wichita mountains. The Wichita Reserve seemed to be closed to tent campers due to Covid, so we opted for this spot in a pinch. Setup directly next to the lake and had a great view of Mt. Scott at sunset! Only complaint was proximity to the road, as there was some passing truck noise throughout the night.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 2, 2018

  Boone Park - Lake Nocona

  Trash Everywhere!

  This site is well removed from civilization. I would advise not trying to stay here during summer months because it is very hot and dry but during spring or fall it is a great place to catch a sunset in solitude.

  RVs and Tents are welcome however sites are harder to maneuver for rigs because of the roadways. I would recommend a tent for access with more room to spread out. There are no improvements at this facility in way of electricity. RVs are able to park on the large parking area comfortably but getting removed from the heat of the asphalt is a bit difficult at this campground.

  Tents can spread out, however the ground is hard packed and so you will want to bring something to give up a little comfort instead of just laying on the ground itself. Air mattress is a great idea but you will for sure want to clear your site before you set up because of the sharp small rocks.

  The grounds themselves are in need of a little TLC, the picnic tables haven’t been replaced in some time and are warped. While they can still be used they are not level at all!! Then comes the garbage! I was so upset to come here only to find it looked like someone had a big party and didn’t clean up. There were literally bags of trash scattered everywhere and one site had been tossed with the garbage can thrown toward the water when it was full. There is a large dumpster at the property because it is right next to the boat ramp and it was so full it looked like it had not been emptied in a long time. I was there on a Wednesday, I find it hard to believe that the weekend before had been so busy that it was that full, this lake isn’t that populated.

  Camping here is completely free so for someone who has an off grid set up this is ideal, I would suggest staying kind of off the beaten path from the boat ramp area.

  This area is known more for their fishing than swimming although you can swim, but there is no beach so you will be hopping into the water from a grassy area. There are two docks which you can fish off of however so this might be more your cup of tea.

• 

  Resa H.

  Scout

  

  Jun. 19, 2021

  Collier Landing

  Do not expect too much.

  This campground is located by a couple of questionable housing additions. Campers have stated items have disappeared from their sites. The traffic is very heavy in and out of the area. It’s a nice part of Lake Ellsworth, however, it is definitely not a campground that is on my top ten list. There are port a potties, electric hookups and some water hookups. Plenty of space to throw a tent down and just camp openly. There are also groundhogs nearby that the kids enjoy watching.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 23, 2018

  Camper’s Paradise

  Amenities Set This Apart From Others In Area

  This is mainly an RV site however they do have a few sites for tents. Tents and vans are only $20 per night with full access to amenities. RVs are $35 per night and they do make concessions for long term stay as well.

  Something that sets this apart from other locations in the area is it provides a small store for those staying and also access to storage for recreational vehicles. It also has on site propane sales so if you happen to be in an RV you do not have to worry about finding supplies elsewhere.

  I enjoy the pool at this stop perhaps the most. It is rare that it is busy despite also allowing non campers to for a small fee swim.

  Bathrooms and showers are available in the main building however they also have a clubhouse which can be used for a fee that includes a kitchen which makes it feel like a more complete campground experience.

  This is one of the most popular roadside stops in this area because of its amenities.

  Tips:

  • Call ahead for long term camping sites - also available are campers available to rent when available

  • Each site is metered for long term campers so they will have direct feed to electricity and is pay by the month by the meter

  • Store here offers a variety of household items as well as food items. If you aren't fully prepared when you arrive this store is very helpful but a little higher than marketstores

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 2, 2018

  Weldon Robb Park

  Best of 3 Public Access Campgrounds With Boat Ramps

  If you are in an RV this is the area at Nocona Lake you will want to check out. Unlike the other two campground which focus more on the tent camper this one has actual RV sites with improvements though they are not waterfront and also area a little small. Sewer and Water are available for a fee in addition to a dump station.

  If you are a tent camper they do have these as well so this makes this campground the more busy of the three when it comes to holidays and nice weather.

  The facility has grills and picnic tables and though they are not in the best of condition they are more recently replaced that other campgrounds and are sheltered from the hot sun with covers.

  This area is the more patrolled of the campsites around the lake so you will have a lot more supervision here and less likely to encounter rogue kids trying to party.

  The positives of staying here include a small fishing pier and boat ramp which is better for larger motor boats then some of the other smaller launch ramps. It is pretty clean, the trash isn’t full and is clearly picked up often. The area is very wide open so it is easy to move around in with your boat, trailer or RV.

  Now to the negatives. With this being a more populated site it can fill up quickly during nice weather around holidays and with that it can be a little hectic. With this being the most busy boat ramp on public access you will have a lot of in and out traffic.

  And lastly, the bathrooms, none of the public facilities are much more than a port a potty, they are a bit odd and not well maintained.

  TIPS:

  • Grab supplies before coming out to the lake at any number of stores in Nocona. The community itself has a grocery store and several mini-marts which provide pretty much everything you could need. The only place you will find on the way out to the lake isn’t open often and everything seems a little dusty.
  • Try geocaching in this area, there are several geocaches which range in size from small sign in only to trinkets. It is a great activity to try with the family and will provide a fun way to get away from the crowds of the lake on a busy weekend.
• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 23, 2018

  Hapgood RV Park

  Very Disappointing, NO TENTS

  This is an RV only site!! As a tent camper this was more than a little upsetting to discover. However I went ahead and checked out the location to help friends who travel have a little insight.

  I was not impressed by the amenities or location at all, it seemed a bit to open for comfort. There are no concessions for those looking to have a real RV park feel, in fact it is more like off grid stay. The original listing I found mentioned bathrooms, however the bathrooms there were closed and only open during the warm weather, so that was a bit deceiving. There was electricity hook up for RVs however so that seemed to at least offset the lacking other amenities.

  The location is very close to area businesses but was overrun with long term oil service workers despite the 72 hour limit. Some of these guys had clearly been here much longer so the rules themselves were a bit confusing and seemed a bit disorganized.

  I was told it is $15 -$20 per night and can be paid at city hall and advanced reservations can be made but are not necessary.

  I personally wouldn't elect to stay at this facility without a lot of changes. It felt to open to the elements and without a functioning restroom it didn't seem to be all it was advertised.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Apr. 28, 2020

  Clear Creek Lake

  Great Lake Access From Camping Areas

  For FULL Video Review CLICK HERE

  When selecting a campground in Oklahoma, options are numerous. With the heat of the summer months however looking at lake properties is something which definitely holds a lot of appeal. 

  I was in the Duncan/Marlow area and noticed the upgraded features at several of the local lakes which are designed to welcome guests. Amongst those Clear Creek Lake, a mid sized lake with about 11 miles of shoreline. The lake itself offers water activities such as fishing, swimming and boating with numerous areas for recreation located around the waters edge. 

  The campground itself offers two styles of camping, primitive and improved with prices varying from$7 to$17. Spaces are large and spacious with lake views and easy water access. Something unique to this lake is they offer extended stay up to 21 days at their location for campers. A pay kiosk was located at the entry to the common space for recreation to assess fees for not only camping but day use on the property. This kiosk accepts card only payment. 

  When I visited I noticed that most of the campsites were located right on the shoreline itself and despite many of the spaces being occupied by larger RVs they were not crowded feeling at all as spaces were large enough to feel comfortable. Each space included a fire ring and picnic table and those with improved camping had access to spigots and covered electrical connections right on their site. Primitive sites had common spigots centrally located. 

  Public use and day use areas were also within the camping zone and included playgrounds, picnic areas and a large pavilion(which can also be reserved). 

  The one slightly confusing point upon my visit was the restroom area. In the more densely populated camping area the restrooms were a bit older, lacked doors on stalls and had bare amenities you would expect from a day use only site. In the area with boat access ramps and fishing piers in addition to swimming areas, located across a small bridge from the main camping area, you could find the newly constructed shower and restroom area. This area was vastly better than the other but located much further from the camping zone itself. 

  On the recreation side of the lake boat ramps and fishing piers jut out into the water at several points, a“beach” area of sorts is indicated with markers in the water which is pretty large and an additional playground and common picnic pavilion are accessible. In this area larger parking was available for boat launch and additional smaller parking access along roadway was available for those visiting the beach.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 2, 2018

  Joe Benton Park - Lake Nocona

  Quietest of Public Camping At Lake Nocona

  When I was younger we used to go over to this lake to ride bikes around during the spring. It was never very busy and mostly was just a few people wanting a weekend get away here and there or a person wanting to use the boat launch.

  There is no fee to come out to this place, so I decided to go back and check it out recently and see if it was worth a daycation to hit the water.

  It is hot in Texas right now to say the least! Because of this most of the grass and other vegetation is pretty dry. There were some signs posted about no burning in the area so a campfire would have been out of the question had I decided to stay.

  The area is scattered with camping sites and could accommodate tents only per its posted policy although there are no improvements such as dump stations or electrical hookups. These sites were rocky and uneven for the most part but you could find hard packed areas that were a little more smooth if you really looked.

  There is a restroom available however it is small but serves the purpose of a restroom only. To be honest this restroom was not some place you would want to use unless you had to, it was more of a port-a-potty in a metal shelter.

  I did notice a few scattered picnic tables. I remember when I was younger these made for a great place to sit down and have a meal, they were shaded and close to parking for those wanting to use this park for day use. Many of them needed to be reworked because their metal roof was peeling up from heavy winds.

  Of the three public facilities this one had to be the middle of the three in way of upkeep and condition. There was nothing which made it overly exceptional. It was the most quiet of the three as well because the majority of those coming out to the lake either want improvements or the larger docks for fishing, and this has neither.

  TIPS:

  • Take your own toilet paper. A lot of people come through here because it is the more improved of three campgrounds in this area so they utilize the facilities for day use and sometimes it is not maintained as often as the traffic would dictate.
  • Try boating from the launch. This lake is great for smaller boats like canoes or smaller fishing boats. In recent years it has endured some falling of the lake levels so I would recommend a smaller boat instead of a larger one.
• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 15, 2018

  Selma City Park

  Small town lake with big outdoor camping space

  When getting ready for summer fun, one of the most simplistic adventures you can go on is a trip to the lake.  We loaded up the car on a random Tuesday with intention of hitting the lake and taking some time to sleep under the stars once again as we traveled to Amon G. Carter Lake in North Texas and found Selma Park.

  Nestled just outside of Bowie, TX the camping area services both the night camper and also the day use explorer.  Facilities offer a boat ramp, camping, swimming pier and beach area as well as fishing areas.  Public toilets are located on property that include flush toilets and public showers and throughout the facility are awnings with picnic tables for those using camp facilities.  Partial hook ups are available for rvs as well making the campground assessable to adventurers of all kinds.

  When we arrived friends were already at the facility and had found a location perfect for our night of camping on a peninsula jutting out into the lake.  The area was well maintained and with the exception of a few broken glasses that were present the area was clear.  We just made sure to steer clear of these during our stay as the pieces were to small to be picked up.

  The camp host drove to our site after we began assembling our tent, as we had missed his location on the way into the facility and made sure to collect our fees for the night.   Only $5 for the night on a lake front property is more than reasonable.  

  Our location was a short drive from the public restrooms that are centralized on the property.  Bathrooms were a bit dim but overall served the purpose.  Gates to through traffic closed at 10 p.m. in the attempt to keep late night traffic away from the facility and provide additional safety, which was a nice touch for those camping.

  There were both shaded sites as well as those more open to the elements.  Ours being on the peninsula was more open, great for lakeside views but unfortunately a bit windy at night without additional cover.  Still the sites were nice and pleasant and well patrolled. 

  We enjoyed swimming in the lake, grilling and even a campfire by night at this location, which was not busy on the quiet Tuesday evening.   

  🐰🐰🐰🐰⚪️

  I would give this site 4 of 5 Bunnies for its easy access, variety of campsites and overall conditions of the facilities.  The only areas of improvement I could see would be additional maintenance to bathrooms including additional lighting for safety. Otherwise price point was great for a simple outing and will for sure be going back!

• 

  Tesla T.

  Scout

  

  Jun. 21, 2021

  Moneka Park

  Greatest Place to Stay

  I absolutely love going here to camp! There's like never anyone, there, so it's always quiet and we don't have to worry about people starting crap for no reason

• N

  N I.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 31, 2021

  Moneka Park

  Tiny but Fetching

  Mar 1 - Oct 31

  Fees:  $10.00 - $14.00

  Limit: 14 days

  Fee box and Register at entrance

  Spaces:  38  No hook ups

  This campground is of a small size but it has an amazing personality with huge mature trees which shade the campground so well.  You will have a picnic table, fish cleaning station, trash, water, grill

  There is a nice open meadow feel because the center of the campground is open.  Campsites are around the outside edge.  The sites are small and with the large trees.  Larger rigs would not be able to park

  LNT

  Travel safe.

• 

  Bradley H.

  Ranger

  

  May. 24, 2021

  Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake

  Chisholm Trail Ridge Campground

  This is a very nice C.O.E. campground. 95 improved camping spots. About half of them back up to Haurika Reservoir. All sites have either 30 or 50 amp service. Water is only on designated sites so be diligent when searching for a site. The park itself is as old as the lake. Bathrooms are old and moderately cared for. The staff are very friendly and gladly accommodated us when we wanted to change our reserved site to another. There are a few “first come” sites available but the majority are by reservation only. It’s a very peaceful, low cost($10.00 to $20.00) and I would recommend this campground.

• 

  Brian V.

  Traveler

  

  Jul. 15, 2021

  Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake

  Nice campground

  Stopped here a couple times for overnights. A little off my travel route, but it's well worth it. Very nice and it's never crowded.

• 

  Daisee Mae S.

  Legend

  

  Nov. 29, 2022

  Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake

  Stunning Views

  We did not stay here but it looks to be a few more sites than the one across the lake.

  This trail has absolutely amazing views and worth the stop.

  I’m glad we stopped before leaving the area.

• 

  Myranda H.

  Scout

  

  Jun. 19, 2023

  Chisholm Trail Ridge Park - Waurika Lake

  Honey moon trip

  Went to stroud lake for honey moon it was amazing

• 

  Luckybreak R.

  Ranger

  

  Oct. 28, 2022

  Kiowa Park II Marina

  Relaxing, well spaced sites.

  Nice uncrowded lakeside campground. Sites and roads need attention but it does keep the traffic slower.

• 

  Rowdy R.

  Scout

  

  Oct. 5, 2023

  Kiowa Park II Marina

  Didn't mow............

  Spent 9/29-10/1 at Kiowa II campground.  The RV parking pads are paved and were  level.  The sites are spacious.  Pull-through and back-in sites are available.  Pull-through sites are for shorter RVs as they are a tightly curved.

  The biggest drawback is that they didn't mow....even for reserved locations!!!  The grass seed heads were no less than knee high.  This caused us to have to park our RV at an angle on the pad to get out of the grass getting caught in our door.

  Additionally,  I walked to the bathroom at the swim beach and was very disappointed and amazed at the thick mature growth of sand burr sticker plants allowed along the beach.  There was a strip about 4-8' wide and approximately 40-60' long at the point the beach meets the grass.  The sand burr plants were also growing throughout the grass area.  I WOULD NOT STAY AT THIS CAMPGROUND IF I HAD RESERVED A SPOT THERE.  There appears to be no grass management at all in this area where children and adults generally would want to go barefoot.  Wish I had taken a pic... :(

  THEN, in different bathroom at the Kiowa II campground, I found a snake skin wrapped around the bottom of a toilet!!!  This is in a bathroom with a closed door.  There was another snake skin in the waste basket between the sinks.  The light was also out in the ladies side of the bathroom.

• 

  Crystal C.

  Legend

  

  Oct. 11, 2018

  Kiowa Park Campground

  Nicest Campground At Lake

  There are two sections of this campground. My first stay I stayed in the second camping loop which was closest to the boat ramp and had a lot of in and out traffic. This site, which was closer to the camp host and entrance seemed to be a more popular site for RVs.

  As I pulled into this site I noticed that the restroom was close to the entry loop. The site had improved flush sensor toilets and running water. Each of the sites was equipped with the standard grill and picnic table but at this location they also had water spigots and electrical hook ups. The sites at this location had shade covers over the picnic tables and were split between back in spaces and pull through sites.

  I noticed on this loop many people have pulled their boats up to the their lakeside sites and had easy access to the water.

  Campsites were pretty large and spread out so even though there were more campers at this location it seemed pretty quiet. It looked as though many had set up for longer term camping, which is allowed up to 14 days at this location.

  I chose a location close to the water but a little further away than some because the waterline was up and additional rains could push up onto sites even further. I noticed that the grass was well maintained at this site but it looked as though no one had stayed at this particular site in a while as there were scattered spiderwebs everywhere and some downed debris which hadn't been cleared.

  Overall the location was much better than the second campground which seemed louder on my last visit. I checked out the campground's second camp on this trip and it seemed like no one was there at all so I believe my original assessment was based on seasonal traffic.